- Must visit
Tabakalera
Major contemporary art center in a former tobacco factory. It hosts ambitious exhibitions, local culture, and one of the city’s strongest programs.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$127
Average price
$202
Fastest journey
7 h 4 m
Average duration
10 h 41 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
899 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian will cost around $202 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Lille for Donostia-San Sebastian on Fri, Jul 31, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 899 km distance in an average of 10 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 4 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 13 h 14 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:12 PM13h14Lille6:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$1271One-way0 transfers- 6:44 PM12h42Lille7:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$2041One-way0 transfers
- 5:44 PM12h42Lille6:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$2071One-way0 transfers
9:14 AM7h43Lille4:57 PMDonostia-San Sebastian$2251One-way0 transfers
4:48 PM7h04Lille11:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastian$2461One-way0 transfers
- 4:48 PM7h04Lille11:52 PMDonostia-San Sebastian$2461One-way0 transfers
- 9:14 AM7h43Lille4:57 PMDonostia-San Sebastian$2251One-way0 transfers
- 6:44 PM12h42Lille7:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$2041One-way0 transfers
- 5:44 PM12h42Lille6:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$2071One-way0 transfers
- 5:12 PM13h14Lille6:26 AMDonostia-San Sebastian$1271One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 33m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, and a train costs an average of $99.
Distance: 558 miles (899 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$176 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $329 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 3m Average total duration Fastest 7h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 18m Average total duration 14h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian:
A bus is $121 (€99) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian costing on average $176 (€144).
The fastest way to travel from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is by train with an average journey time of 7h 33m.
Other travel options to Donostia-San Sebastian take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lille and Donostia-San Sebastian including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 3h 0m faster (7h 33m by train vs 10h 33m by car) and roughly $152 (€125) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($176 (€144) vs $329 (€269)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian train times
The table below shows live departures for Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian trains for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:57 PM Lille | 13h15 | 6:12 AM Donostia-San Sebastian | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:57 PM Lille | 13h15 | 7:12 AM Donostia-San Sebastian | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 31 | |||||
| 9:14 AM Lille | 7h43 | 4:57 PM Donostia-San Sebastian | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
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Aug 01
Aug 01
Sun
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Aug 02
Mon
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Aug 03
Tue
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Aug 06
Why should you book Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV INOUI as well as SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 or SNCF | Intercités de nuit offer trains services from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV INOUI tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV INOUI?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV INOUI, but also compare tickets for the likes of SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 or SNCF | Intercités de nuit to find the best option for your trip from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF | TGV INOUI with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
France
Spain
Trains from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian run on average 13 times per day, taking around 7h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $99 (€81) but you can travel from only $26 (€21) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:47, the last at 20:18. The fastest train covers the 558 miles (899 km) distance in 6h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $26 (€21)
Distance 558 miles (899 km) |
Average train duration 7h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $99 (€81) |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 6h 55m |
First train 4:47 AM |
Last train 8:18 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $26 (€21)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités de nuit from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187, SNCF | Intercités de nuit trains will get you between Lille and Donostia-San Sebastian from $26 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 55m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€81)
SNCF | TGV INOUI frequency
10 a day
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187
About
SNCF TER (Transport Express Régional) is the regional train service operated by France's national railway company, SNCF. It provides low-cost travel within France's regions, connecting towns and areas not served by high-speed trains. Each French region independently manages its own TER network, offering various ticket types, including discount cards and special fares. TER trains are used by over 800,000 passengers daily and are a popular choice for both commuters and tourists exploring France's diverse landscapes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 13m
Cheapest Price
$115 (€95)
SNCF TER | Operated by SNCF Voyageurs 1187 frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one suitcase included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at train ends
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack bar or food trolley service on some routes, vending machines available
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for additional fee, included in some first-class tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket, guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
SNCF | Intercités de nuit
About
SNCF Intercités de nuit is the regular overnight train service offered by France's national railway company, SNCF, since 2012. These trains, primarily using Corail coaches, provide a time-effective way to travel across France, connecting Paris to various destinations in the south, including the Alps, the Côte d'Azur, and the Pyrenees. Passengers can choose from reclining seats, 6-berth couchettes in second class, or 4-berth couchettes in first class, with the option to book an entire compartment for privacy. Services can include Wi-Fi, pre-ordered meals, and even shower access at select stations for first-class travelers. Popular routes include Paris to Nice, Toulouse, Briançon, and Lourdes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 42m
Cheapest Price
$102 (€84)
SNCF | Intercités de nuit frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage included
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Food sold onboard
Vending machine with snacks and drinks available
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding/disembarking
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require paid ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Donostia-San Sebastian
Things to do in Donostia-San Sebastian
Discover the best of Donostia-San Sebastian — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Donostia-San Sebastian trip today.
- Must visit
San Telmo Museoa
Fine arts museum in a historic building with Basque, Spanish, and international works. A compact stop for painting and sculpture lovers.
- Must visit
Aquarium
Aquarium with historic maritime displays and a famous underwater tunnel. It combines family appeal with local ocean and fishing context.
- Must visit
Paseo de La Concha
The city’s most famous beach promenade curves around La Concha Bay. Essential for classic views, elegant walks, and sunset atmosphere.
- Must visit
Parte Vieja
Historic Old Town of lively squares, churches, and traditional streets. It is the best area for atmosphere, architecture, and everyday city life.
- Must visit
Zurriola Beach and Promenade
Urban beach and neighborhood promenade popular with surfers and locals. Great for broad sea views, people-watching, and a more contemporary vibe.
Pintxos
Small bar snacks on bread or bites, central to local txikiteo culture. San Sebastián is famous for creative and classic pintxos in packed old-town bars.
- Gluten-free
Rodaballo A La Parrilla
Whole grilled turbot, prized on the Basque coast for its clean flavor and simple preparation with olive oil, garlic, and grill smoke.
- Gluten-free
Bacalao A La Donostiarra
Basque-style cod often cooked with garlic, olive oil, and peppers. It reflects the region’s deep seafood tradition and classic home cooking.
Arzak
Celebrated fine-dining restaurant with innovative Basque cuisine and tasting menus in an elegant, destination setting above the city.
Kokotxa
Refined modern Basque restaurant by the bay, known for seafood-focused tasting menus and a polished but welcoming dining room.
Casa Urola
Well-known grill restaurant specializing in premium beef and Basque classics, with a smart, contemporary atmosphere near the center.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Spain: lodging is pricier in peak season, but pintxos, set lunches, and local buses keep daily costs manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for pintxos, fast food, or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-40 per person for a standard restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. Round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service; small change is fine in cafes. Taxi tipping is usually just rounding up.
FAQs: Trains from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Donostia-San Sebastian, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $99 (€81), while the average price is around $176 (€144).
The train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian takes 6h 55m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is 558 miles (899 km).
The first train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 4:47 AM.
The last train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian leaves at 8:18 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Yes, there is a night train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
The train station in Lille that goes to Donostia-San Sebastian is Lille Flandres, which connects to Hendaye station.
The cheapest way to get from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is by bus, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
The train journey from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the French countryside and the Pyrenees mountains, providing travelers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian is not feasible due to a travel duration of 6h 55m and a distance of 558 miles (899 km). However, there are 12 train journeys available per day.
In Donostia-San Sebastian, you can enjoy surfing at Zurriola Beach, join a pintxo tour in the lively bars of the Old Town, take a funicular to Monte Igueldo for stunning views and amusement park fun, explore marine life at the Aquarium, or attend events at the Kursaal Congress Centre. Don't miss visiting La Concha Beach, the historic Old Town, and the San Telmo Museoa. For panoramic views, head to Monte Igueldo, and visit Miramar Palace for beautiful gardens and bay views.
Three days in Donostia-San Sebastian is ideal to explore the city's beautiful beaches, indulge in its renowned culinary scene, and visit key attractions like the Old Town and Monte Igueldo.
Yes, you can take the train from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian.
Since both Lille and Donostia-San Sebastian are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Donostia-San Sebastian include Vitoria-Gasteiz, Pamplona, Tolosa, Irun, Alsasua – Altsasu.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Donostia-San Sebastian, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as La Concha Beach and the Old Town. Common scams include distraction techniques used near popular attractions and public transportation. It is advisable to keep belongings secure and stay vigilant in busy spots, particularly during festivals or large events. Overall, the city is considered safe, but standard precautions against petty theft are recommended.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
Most Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian trains use the Lille Flandres to Hendaye station pair. Use this guide to compare Lille and Donostia-San Sebastian train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lille
Arrival train stations in Donostia-San Sebastian
Which Lille station do trains to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from?
Trains from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian leave from Lille Flandres. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Lille city centre at Place des Buisses 59000 Lille, France.
Lille FlandresPlace des Buisses 59000 Lille, France+33 184943635
City-centre transport
Getting to Lille Flandres from Lille city centre
BusL5, 14 · 4m · $2 · every ~33 min
SubwayM1 · 3m · $2 · every ~28 min
Lille Flandres train station facilities and services
Lille Flandres has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Chopsticks & Co, McDonald's, Subway, Black Coffee, Eric Kayser, So! Coffee, Aux Merveilleux de Fred
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi is available after creating an account and connecting to "CONNECTION.". ATMs are aTM is located by Track 9.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 20:00, Sat: 08:00 - 19:30, Sun: 09:00 - 19:30.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lille Flandres: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lille Flandres: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lille Flandres: Accessibility available with elevator, ramp or step-free access, barrier-free toilets, services to assist disabled passengers.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Le Napoleon, Hotel Chopin, Ibis Styles Lille Centre Grand Place.
Lille-Europe1 Place François Mitterrand, 59777 Euralille, France+33 892353535
City-centre transport
Getting to Lille-Europe from Lille city centre
Lille-Europe is 1 km from Lille city centre. Public transport options include:
BusL5 · 5m · $2 · every ~19 min
L5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min
Lille-Europe train station facilities and services
Lille-Europe has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Costa Coffee, Factory & Co., PAUL, Selecta
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available for a fee. ATMs are located in Hall 3.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sun: 06:30 - 20:00. Information desks are located in Hall 2 and Hall 3.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is staffed luggage counter is open daily from 07:30 to 20:00 and is located in Hall 1.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lille-Europe: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lille-Europe: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lille-Europe: The station is fully accessible, including wheelchair ramps, a magnetic induction loop for people with hearing loss and a guidance system for people with visual impairments. Staff can provide additional assistance, and wheelchairs are available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Novotel Suites Gare Lille Europe, Hôtel Lille Europe - Euralille, Kyriad Lille Gare - Grand Palais.
Lille CHR
City-centre transport
Getting to Lille CHR from Lille city centre
Lille CHR is 2 km from Lille city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainTer · 9m · $1 · every ~5 min
BusAutocar · 15m · $4
L5 · 23m · $2 · every ~19 min
SubwayM1 · 6m · $2 · every ~28 min
M1 · 7m · $2 · every ~28 min
Lille CHR train station facilities and services
Lille CHR has practical services for this route, including Accessibility and Bike Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Lille CHR: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lille CHR: Ramps, restrooms.
More options for your journey from Lille to Donostia-San Sebastian
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Donostia-San Sebastian and Lille
Most popular train connections to Donostia-San Sebastian
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